Armando Orozco said his family members all ducked for cover after they heard the sound of gunfire. His little brother Axel was downstairs with some other adults watching a movie.

"My uncle grabbed him and threw him down to the floor as soon as he heard all the gunshots," he said. "Then he picked him up and then he saw blood on the little baby's back and then he started crying."

Emergency crews said the toddler was conscious and awake when they arrived at the scene. Medical experts said his condition had stabilized Friday afternoon.

Police said they believe the shooter was on foot and not in a car. Neighbors said they spotted two or three hooded young men running away from the scene. Dogs were brought to the scene to try to track the scent.

Family members told KMBC's Peggy Breit that the toddler's 16-year-old sister was shot at three months ago and this may have been retaliation for an arrest in that case. One person was taken into custody in connection with that incident and is now in jail.

According to police reports, the neighborhood where the shooting took place has been the scene of seven crimes since late October, including property crimes, theft and assault. Police said they believe gang activity is going on in the area.